* Every week, Red Cross Tech Talk looks at different technology or social media tools that pertain to the work we do at the Red Cross. Have an idea? Please let us know!
At the Red Cross, when we think of disasters, we mostly think of earthquakes, hurricanes, fires, flooding and how we’re able to respond and help people. But with social media, a real-life crisis can quickly turn into an online disaster if we don’t provide timely updates and answer questions.
As we’ve seen after disasters in Haiti, Japan and the recent housing crisis in Attawapiskat, information and sometimes misinformation travels more quickly and to more people than ever before thanks to Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and blogs.
We don't claim to always get it right when it comes to social media, but we’re always looking for opportunities to learn best practices from experts and share our own experience of using social media to connect with our supporters. That's why I was so keen to attend a session by Jeff MacArthur at Podcamp Halifax this past weekend. Jeff is the president of MGImedia Communications and the brother of Twitter Team member Amber Mac.
His talk focused on how to establish a respected social media presence and manage crisis, whether you're a business owner or a non-profit like the Red Cross. Jeff gave great advice such as how important it is to listen, add value, be authentic, honest and correct, tell our stories, and manage risks on social media.
When it comes to avoiding disasters, many of the same best practices Red Crossers put into action when it comes to floods and fires also apply to social media: listen, be honest, accept a situation that you may not be able to control, be positive and proactive and ask for help if you need it. And of course, it all comes down to being prepared.